'Watch them shine'

The experience aims to give students the skills to become future leaders.

"We find that the individuals who participate in our programs are more independent, more confident, more willing to get out there and have a go at things and not fall in a heap so they develop resilience while they're here as well," said Ms Francis.

She said the school's research showed that former Indigenous students were more likely to stay in secondary school and pursue university studies after attending.

Students on the whole were also more likely to take up leadership roles within their communities, with past alumni starting up various projects including those to help the disabled and homeless.

"We make the mistake with thinking adolescents believe 'It's all about me, it's all about me,'" Ms Francis said.

"But give them an opportunity to do something for someone else and watch them shine. They're fantastic."

The school's overall principal Mark Reeves said a decision should be made on the two new campuses in the next two months.

'We're confident they'll go ahead. There's a demand and willingness on behalf of the government," he said.

The Department of Education said it was working with the school on the proposal and it would be subject to future budget considerations.

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